History of Oris Watches

In their over 100-year history the watchmakers of Oris have lived through both turbulent and quiet times.

Discover the worlds of Oris and the success story with Oris mechanical watches all across the world. The story takes you on a journey through time from the foundation of the Hölstein manufacturer to today’s dynamic organisation.

Oris is based in the picturesque village of Hölstein in the North-west of Switzerland. The location was chosen by Paul Cattin and Georges Christian, watchmakers from Le Locle, when they founded the company in 1904. Oris is the name of a brook and valley close to Hölstein. It has its origins in the Celtish ‘Aurisa’ and Roman ‘Orusz’ meaning watercourse.

Oris produces only mechanical movements. Each Ois watch has a mechanical movement at its heart, as well as a visible red rotor, the patented symbol of Oris High-Mech. This rotor is the innovation that enabled the progression from hand winding to automatic movements.

5 reasons to own an Oris watch.

1. Purely Mechanical

Oris is the world’s leading manufacturer of mechanical watches up to CHF 4000
Oris produces only mechanical watches (watches without batteries)
The red rotor is the symbol of Oris mechanicals and is a registered trademark.

2. Characteristic Designs

Oris watches have distinctive faces and functions.
Oris design is clean and follows the design concept form follows function.

3. Swiss Quality

Oris watches are manufactured by Swiss craftsmen.
Oris watches are made for daily use.
Oris watches meet the highest quality standards.

4. Proud Heritage

Oris has a proud heritage of over 100 years of watch manufacturing in Hölstein, Switzerland.
Oris has always produced mechanical watches.

5. Dedicated to Personalities

Oris develops timepieces in collaboration with personalities from the fields of motor sport, diving, aviation and culture. These people wear and support Oris watches.
Oris watches are handed down from generation to generation.
Oris watches are available all around the world.